New detailed plans for two freight rail projects, that will ease traffic congestion on some of Sydney’s busiest roads, have been approved by the NSW Government.
The current single freight rail track between Mascot and Botany will be duplicated and a new passing loop will be added to the freight line between Cabramatta and Warwick Farm stations, allowing for freight trains up to 1,300 metres in length.
Minister for Transport and Roads Andrew Constance said the Botany Rail Duplication and Cabramatta Loop projects will improve current supply and help meet Sydney’s future freight demand.
“As the state’s largest container port the efficient operation of Port Botany is critical. Forecasts predict a whopping 77 per cent increase in the amount of freight it handles from 14.4 million tonnes in 2016 to 25.5 million tonnes by 2036,” Mr Constance said.
“For every extra freight train travelling on the Botany line, up to 54 trucks can be taken off Sydney’s roads.”
Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Paul Toole said the fast-tracked assessment will enable construction works to commence within the next six months.
“These projects are crucial because more freight is moved on rail lines and congestion is busted with fewer trucks on our roads,” Mr Toole said.
“This project will not only provide new rail infrastructure, but will inject around $400 million into the economy and create around 500 local jobs during construction.”
Both projects are been delivered by the Australian Rail Track Corporation with the Cabramatta Loop Project expected to be completed by mid-2023 and the Botany Rail Duplication expected to be completed by late-2024.
The two projects are the latest projects to be determined through the NSW Government’s Planning System Acceleration Program that is keeping people in jobs and the economy moving through the COVID-19 pandemic. To date, the program has created opportunities for more than 41,000 jobs and $18.2 billion in economic benefit.